While the dogs searched, public and non-public areas of the council headquarters and law courts were evacuated, with staff from County Hall, judges, barristers, solicitors and others gathered inside Clwyd Theatr Cymru.

Prisoners in the court’s cell block were transferred to Wrexham police station.

Neal Cockerton from Flintshire council said: “A bomb threat, which was later established to be a hoax, was received earlier today.

“As a result, County Hall was evacuated and all precautionary measures undertaken, including the evacuation of the Law Courts building.

“County Hall was reopened at 3.35pm and business resumed as usual.

“I would like to thank the emergency services for their prompt response to the situation and our workforce and the public for their patience and understanding.”